The Park Forest Fire Department responded to more emergency calls in 2024 than in any other year on record, according to the department’s newly released annual report.
The report, which covers department operations, staffing, training, and community outreach, was introduced in July by newly appointed Fire Chief Mark Cotrano. It highlights a year marked by high demand and unwavering dedication from fire and emergency personnel.
“We are proud of the work our department accomplished in 2024,” Cotrano said. “This report demonstrates the professionalism and resilience our firefighters and paramedics bring to the community every single day.”
Last year, the department responded to 5,189 emergency calls—more than in any previous year. Of these, 3,902 were medical in nature, while 1,287 were fire-related. December was the department's busiest month, with 480 calls, and Mondays proved to be the busiest day of the week. The peak hour for emergency activity was between 5 and 6 p.m.
In terms of fire responses, the department managed 53 structure fires, nine cooking fires, and three grass fires. They also provided or received mutual or automatic aid on 581 incidents. Notably, the department received no citizen complaints for the third consecutive year.
Cotrano, who officially took over as fire chief following the retirement of longtime Chief Tracy Natyshok, noted that the report reflects years of leadership and foundational work. “Chief Natyshok laid a strong groundwork for growth, training, and innovation,” Cotrano said. “We’re continuing that momentum.”
Training was a key focus for 2024, especially for the EMS Division led by EMS Coordinator Bess Vlahakis. Monthly training sessions were held for Park Forest personnel and surrounding agencies, covering various topics such as burn care, cardiac emergencies, and pediatric arrest scenarios. In one session, crews practiced 12-lead EKG techniques and cardiac anatomy using pig hearts.
The fire department employed 28 full-time staff members and two paid-on-call firefighters. Minimum daily staffing was maintained at six, thanks to a SAFER Grant, though overtime was necessary on 98 occasions due to staffing shortages.
Operating on a nearly $6.6 million budget, the largest portion—$3.3 million—was allocated to personnel services. Other expenses included insurance, maintenance, equipment, and dispatch services. Although no new grants were awarded in 2024, staff continued to seek external funding opportunities.
Other highlights from the year included the retirement of Firefighter/Paramedic Edward Wright after 23 years of service and the recognition of Firefighter Cory Murdoch as the 2023 Firefighter of the Year during the department’s February awards ceremony.
Community outreach remained a core focus, with department staff hosting events during Main Street Nights, Fire Prevention Week, and the Park Forest Farmers Market. The department also achieved strong engagement online, with more than 3,000 Facebook followers and over 34,000 views on a TikTok post.
Looking ahead to this year, the department received the delivery of a new compact fire engine, designed for tighter spaces such as co-op lots in Park Forest.
“Our focus is always on readiness, service, and safety,” Cotrano said. “While the numbers indicate record-breaking calls, it’s the people behind the response who truly define this department.”
To read the full report, click here.